Immersing my boys in the world of books is a passion that fuels our family life. I genuinely believe that this practice has been a game-changer, especially in my son’s speech development.
Getting the diagnosis of autism for our son was a pivotal moment for us. I dove headfirst into researching everything I could, and my quest led me to children’s books about autism. Specifically, stories featuring Black autistic characters. To my slight dismay, the selection wasn’t as vast as I had hoped. However, my determination didn’t waver—I’ve kept my eyes peeled for any new additions to this essential collection. I’ve connected with incredible autistic Black people, some of whom have authored remarkable books themselves.
The challenge lies in finding literature that covers both the Black experience and the intricacies of special needs and sensory issues. It’s crucial to curate a comprehensive booklist for those seeking diverse narratives, which is precisely what I’m here to do. I’m excited to share with you the gems I’ve uncovered so far. These are autism books for kids that spotlight autistic people of color, and they’ve made an impact on me. Just click on the titles to explore these books further and, if you’re interested, make them part of your collection.
Let’s make this a good starting point in our journey to build an inclusive literary landscape. One that reflects the beautiful tapestry of Black communities.
Do books help children with autism?
“What a great way for young children and young readers to feel seen and represented than through the pages of a good book.” I’m not quite sure where I read that, but it remains true for us to this day. We’ve harnessed the power of reading to immerse our kids in the beauty of the Spanish language, and it’s proven to be a brilliant teaching tool. Moreover, it’s a secret weapon in enhancing their learning and social skills. A trusty companion whenever our son navigates sensory overload, as I wrap him in the world of a good book. And, let’s not forget the bedtime tales, an enchanting tradition that bolsters our son’s cherished routine, helping him flourish day by day.
Why is it important for Black children to see Black autistic main characters?
It’s incredibly important for autistic kids to see Black autistic characters in books because representation matters. When children, especially those on the autism spectrum, see characters that look like them, share similar experiences, and overcome challenges in stories, it creates a powerful sense of belonging and validation.
Books featuring Black autistic characters:
Come Meet Drayden:
Dana Young-Askew is the parent of an autistic son who wrote this book to share this sweet story about Drayden. Join us as we introduce you to the incredible Drayden. In this heartfelt journey, you’ll get a glimpse into the beautiful and unique world he shares with his family members every day. Autism, a complex neurobehavioral tapestry, reveals itself in various ways. Challenging the realms of social interaction, and communication, and embracing the rich tapestry of behaviors, interests, and activities. Drayden, a remarkable soul, walks this path with Autism, and he’s an absolute rockstar! We invite you to immerse yourself in his story. And we’re sure you’ll be touched by the wonder that is Drayden.
Rece Takes Swimming by Jasmine Poole:
Dive into this captivating autism picture book, where we meet the remarkable young Rece. A spirited non-verbal boy navigating the vibrant world of autism. Meanwhile, tackling our fears can be a monumental task, and for Rece, with his unique sensory processing journey, it’s an incredible tale of courage. Join us on this journey as we follow Rece’s inspiring journey to conquer his fear of water. Embarking on a mission to embrace the world of swimming. His fearless determination becomes a beacon, encouraging us all to face our own hurdles with unwavering trust, harness our innate abilities, and never back down from our fears, no matter how daunting they may seem. Get ready for a powerful story of resilience. One that encourages us all to step outside our comfort zones and make waves in our own lives.
Brailynn the Ballerina by Brailynn Camille:
Step into the enchanting world of this captivating book, where we meet the wonderful Brailynn as she embarks on her very first dance class, filled with the promise of new experiences and friendships. However, the dance moves don’t come easy for Brailynn, and a few missteps lead to some giggles from the other girls. It’s Jada, her new friend, who sees beyond the surface and understands that Brailynn has Autism, making her learning style unique. With a heart full of compassion, Jada steps in to lend a helping hand, guiding Brailynn back on track. Empowered by Jada’s support, Brailynn perseveres, determined to earn the coveted approval from Ms. Claudelle, and secures her spot in the final performance.
This great book beautifully showcases how Brailynn’s passion for dance becomes a bridge to forming meaningful friendships. It’s a tale that reminds us of the power of understanding, compassion, and the magic of pursuing our dreams, while also highlighting the importance of embracing and celebrating our differences. Join Brailynn on this heartwarming journey, where the rhythm of friendship and the joy of dance come together in a heartwarming story.
My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete:
Meet Callie, a sister bursting with pride for her incredible younger brother, Charlie. He’s a young dynamo with a long list of talents that would put superheroes to shame – a swimming champ, a piano maestro, and a speedster extraordinaire. Not to mention, Charlie shares an extraordinary bond with their furry friend, Harriett. But there’s a side to Charlie that adds depth to his amazing persona. At times, he becomes a bit quiet, as if his words are on a secret vacation inside him, leaving him a little distant. But fear not, because when Callie and Charlie dive into their world of play, the magic happens. Charlie is back in full swing, laughing, holding hands, and creating a symphony of fun. He’s like any other young boy, except he brings his own unique brilliance – he has autism.
This story unfolds through the eyes of Callie, a loving sister who takes us on a heartfelt journey. We enter the world of a family where their remarkable oldest son, Charlie, becomes the unexpected teacher of valuable lessons. Together, they learn about the beauty of togetherness, the strength of hope, the power of tolerance, and the boundless force of love. So join us in this captivating tale, as we embrace the warmth and wisdom that radiate from the heart of their shared experience.
Khahari Discovers the Meaning of Autism by Evan J. Roberts:
Khahari Discovers the Meaning of Autism by Evan J. Roberts: “Khahari Discovers the Meaning of Autism” isn’t just any story picture book – it’s a captivating journey tailor-made for kids aged 5-7, where the thrill of playing with a neighborhood friend takes center stage. As Khahari shares playful moments with Omari, his buddy-next-door, however a simple game of basketball takes an unexpected turn, leading to a little hiccup involving Omari’s cousin, Jaden. Suddenly, Khahari’s game plan shifts, and he decides he’s done with playing alongside Jaden.
But, there’s a twist. Omari steps in with a powerful message – the boys should stick together, no matter what. This is where the tale takes a heartwarming turn, as Khahari dives into understanding the unique challenges Jaden faces with autism. What follows is a beautiful interplay of friendship, empathy, and learning. In the end, these three friends find a way to not only support one another but also strengthen their bond in a remarkable way.
This delightful book isn’t just about teaching social interactions – it’s a vivid canvas of friendship, compassion, and growth that will leave young minds filled with valuable lessons and an enriched understanding of the world around them. Dive into the pages of “Khahari Discovers the Meaning of Autism” and embark on a captivating adventure where the magic of friendship shines brighter than ever.
Liam’s First Cut by Taye Jones:
Step into the world of Liam, a remarkable young boy whose vibrant spirit shines brightly. He’s not just any boy, but a proud member of the beautiful Black community, and he carries the unique colors of an autism spectrum disorder with grace. As the day he’s eagerly awaited draws near, we join Liam on a heartwarming journey, a pivotal rite of passage that every boy encounters – that thrilling first visit to the barbershop.
This isn’t just a book; it’s a testament to the beauty of fatherhood, a celebration of the strength found in Black families, and an ode to the wonderful diversity of our neurodivergent world. For us, it was more than just a story; it was a lifeline, especially since our own son faces his own challenges, including the dreaded haircut struggle.
Liam’s tale resonated with us, touching on the real-life moments that both uplift and challenge our kids. We saw our son in Liam’s eyes, and it filled us with hope, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the journey we’re all on.
This book isn’t just for Liam; it’s for every child who dares to be unique. But also for every parent who loves their child unconditionally, and for every moment that builds a bridge between our differences and our shared humanity. Liam’s journey is a triumph, and his story, like our son’s, is one that deserves to be celebrated, shared, and cherished. A wonderful read that reminds us that love, support, and a little bit of courage can make any challenge a bit more manageable.
Buster Finds His Beat by Pamela Aculey:
A feel-good story about an autistic boy named Buster. He uses ear defenders to soften the sounds he hears. Follow along to find out how he faces his fears.
Just Like You by Crystal Jordan:
This is a story about Zachariah who is starting pre-k, and like any other kid, he is excited about his new adventure. The only thing is, that he is a non-verbal child who was diagnosed with autism. Crystal Jordan is a children’s book author who raises awareness for autism through literature. She has written and published a number of books. Including Just Like You, I Am Auesome Positive Affirmations for Autistic Boys, I Am Auesome Positive Affirmations for Autistic Girls, I Am Auesome Positive Affirmations for Autistic Children, and a variety of coloring books.
A Special Little Girl by Derrick Jakolby Washington:
Meet Zyion, a remarkable 10-year-old bursting with a personality that fills every room with vibrant energy and a smile that could outshine the sun. Yet, there’s a unique journey she’s embarked upon in the realm of learning. Zyion’s path took an extraordinary turn when she was diagnosed with Autism at the tender age of 4. But this is not just her story; it’s a journey we’ll take together. As we explore the world through Zyion’s eyes, guided by the unwavering love and support of her incredible family. Walk with Zyion as she paints her own colorful canvas in a world that’s equally full of challenges and beautiful moments, showcasing the resilience, love, and wonderful tapestry that is her life.
The Amazingly Awesome Amani by Jamiyl Samuels and Tracy-Ann Samuels:
Amani Taylor is a boy of few words until he falls asleep. When night falls, he becomes AWESOME AMANI crime-fighting superhero and defender of all that is good. W.R.E.a.C Havoc Heroes series presents the story of a boy who takes on life’s challenges by day but is an avenger in his dreams. This is a tale of PERSEVERANCE and the power of great imagination.
James C.A.N. Make New Friends by Tori Kendrick:
Meet James, a remarkable 7-year-old bursting with talents that can put even the most experienced adults to shame. His playground companion, Hercules the dinosaur, is always by his side, ready for adventures. Today, James is off to the playground, but there’s a hint of nervousness in the air. You see, James is a shining star with a unique journey; he’s a boy with autism. The world of playgrounds and new faces can be a bit challenging for him.
But fear not, because his amazing parents are there to lend a helping hand. Together, they’re on a mission to conquer those butterflies in his stomach. Will James find the courage to step into the vibrant world of playground friendships? Will he break through the barriers, embrace the fun, and perhaps even make a couple of new friends in the process? Join us in this heartwarming adventure as we root for James, cheering him on every step of the way!
A Day With No Words by Tiffany Hammond:
Step into the vibrant world of “A Day With No Words.” Where the colors of life burst forth in a celebration of a remarkable Autism Family. Together, they communicate in a language that goes beyond spoken words. Unveiling a unique and beautiful way of sharing their thoughts and emotions.
This captivating picture book takes you on a journey, unveiling the magic of families who embrace nonverbal communication. They use tools, like a tablet, as a means to express themselves, bridging the gap between their hearts and the world around them.
Meet the driving force behind this powerful story, Tiffany Hammond (social media handle @fidgets.and.fries), a dedicated Autistic mother of two amazing Autistic sons. Her insights, her passion, and her lived experience infuse this book with authenticity and understanding. It’s not just a story; it’s a reflection of real lives, real moments, and the incredible strength that defines the Autistic community.
Take a peek at my carefully curated list
While it’s not exhaustive, I’ve managed to unearth some fantastic reads about autism. My focus? Books featuring Black characters, because I believe representation matters. I want my son to flip through the pages and feel the spark of inspiration, to see characters who reflect his own world. And not just during Black History Month. Books aren’t just stories; they’re portals to diverse cultures and perspectives. Opening young minds to the beauty of our diverse world.
Every child in the Black community deserves to see themselves within the pages of a book. And for Black autistic children, this representation is doubly crucial. It’s a mirror that reflects not just their racial identity but also their unique neurological experiences, forging a complete sense of self. Through these characters, they understand that their identity isn’t just valid – it’s incredibly valuable.
The search for books featuring Black autistic characters will continue
I’ve scoured high and low, but there might be a gem or two that escaped my radar. No worries – as the world spins on, new stories emerge, and my list will grow. I’m committed to keeping this post updated, ensuring you’ll always find a fresh array of books to explore.
If you happen to stumble upon another gem – a book with Black autistic characters that belong on this list, a story that should be celebrated – I’m all ears! Let me know, and together, we’ll build a treasure trove of stories that empower, uplift, and celebrate the beautiful diversity of young minds.
I am so glad I found your page.
My colleagues and I are researching around this specific topic and its great to see pages likes yours of people with lived experiences of the topic.
Hello Kisha,
I am the author of a recently published children’s book titled, Tylor’s Authentic Smile: A Sibling Book About Autism. I would love to add this book to your list. The lead character is a young, black, autistic boy interacting with his younger sister. The story addresses support, advocacy, sibling bond, parental interaction, . You can see the book description on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CVHRVRLR